Sidi Mohamed Abdallahi, the 22-year-old Mauritanian national who was held on charges related to a shooting incident in Chicago, was found dead in his jail cell in what authorities describe as an “apparent suicide attempt by hanging.” The Cook County Sheriff’s Office reported that staff discovered Abdallahi unresponsive during a routine check at the facility’s medical unit. Emergency measures were implemented, and he was transported to a hospital but was subsequently declared deceased.
On October 26, Abdallahi allegedly shot a Jewish man en route to a synagogue in Chicago. The incident escalated when law enforcement and first responders arrived on the scene, and Abdallahi reportedly opened fire, shouting “Allahu Akbar” during the exchange. Although Abdallahi sustained injuries in the firefight, responding officers escaped without harm. An ambulance from the Chicago Fire Department was hit during the gunfire exchange.
Prosecutors had argued that Abdallahi was involved in a broader plan targeting several Jewish institutions, including schools and community centers. Evidence suggesting he had mapped out these locations was presented in court.
Following the shooting incident, Abdallahi was initially hospitalized due to his injuries but was later transferred to jail custody. Despite the current designation of suicide, the Illinois State Police Public Integrity Task Force is set to carry out an independent inquiry into his death. While authorities have ruled out foul play, the investigation continues to ensure all circumstances are thoroughly examined.